Everton linked with another splurge

Following a great season with new manager Roberto Martinez, Everton have already completed deals to bring Gareth Barry and Romelu Lukaku back to Goodison Park, following successful loan spells, and brought in other players such as Muhamed Besic and Brendan Galloway this summer.

Despite that business though, they are still short in several areas. Other loan players who were integral last season have returned to their parent clubs, leaving Martinez having to look at additional targets.

The Mirror believes that one of these targets is former Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou. They report that the 29-year-old is unsettled at Lille and wants a move back to England, sparking interest from a number of clubs, including Tottenham.

Everton may be in pole position to sign him, though they will have to battle it out with a number of sides to acquire his services.

Although he has shown a preference for working with young talent, the Everton manager is sure to understand that players with proven Premier League experience can be vital to a successful campaign. Kalou fits that billing perfectly and would also provide a threat anywhere across the attacking line.

The Ivory Coast man played 156 league games for Chelsea during his previous spell in England, scoring 36 times. Since joining Lille in 2012 he has managed to find the net 30 times in just 66 games, proving his talent in front of goal. Kalou also has much experience at international level, with 68 caps for his national side.

This means that the forward is unlikely to have to spend a long time settling in to the demands of the competition. Instead he should be jump straight in at the deep end and provide Everton with more attacking options.